By Sylvia Okoi
The Cross River State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Moses Osogi, has been conferred with the chieftaincy title of Obol Okammke 1 of Ugep (Great Philanthropist) by the Ugep Community.
The title was bestowed upon Osogi by the Paramount Ruler of Yakurr and Obol Lopon of Ugep, Obol Ofem Ubana Eteng, during a ceremony at the Umor-Otutu Palace in Ugep on Friday.
Speaking during the installation, the Paramount Ruler stated that the conferment of the chieftaincy title was based on careful observation of Osogi’s lifestyle and activities, highlighting the numerous positive testimonies he had received about the Commissioner.
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“I have heard many commendable things about you, and it is clear that you are deserving of this revered historic title of Obol Okammke 1 of Ugep,” he remarked.
The esteemed Monarch emphasized that Osogi has demonstrated through his actions that he is committed to sustaining his legacy as a philanthropist and helper. He prayed for the newly installed chief, proclaiming divine blessings, favor, guidance, and protection against all forms of evil.
In his acceptance speech to the honor, an evidently elated Osogi expressed gratitude to the paramount ruler of Yakurr and his cabinet for their acceptance and support.
“Today is a special day ordained by God Almighty to reward my humanitarian gestures. Giving is an intrinsic part of my life that I embrace wholeheartedly, and I am overwhelmed by the title bestowed upon me,” Osogi affirmed.
Describing the honor as historic, the newly conferred Obol Okammke 1 of Ugep, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Linda Moses Osogi, noted that the title symbolizes a strengthened bond between the Yakurr nation and the Anong Community, his hometown.
He thanked the Paramount Ruler and his cabinet for deeming him worthy of the prestigious chieftaincy title from the largest village in West Africa and promised to uphold the values associated with his title for the betterment of society.
The ceremony featured the reading of a citation by the Cross River State Commissioner for Transport, Pastor Ekpenyoung Cohbam, along with cultural dance presentations and goodwill messages.
The grand event attracted dignitaries from across the state, including members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, high-ranking government officials, women and youth groups, and staff from the Environment and Urban Development Authorities, as well as members of the Anong Community and others.